Himachal/Dharamsala News- Foreign Tourism in Himachal is at decline, needs improvement: Economist
Author(s): Arvind SharmaDharamsala, September 28, 2013: Himachal Government has made earnest efforts to attract tourists in the state even then the number of tourists in HP is lower in comparison to other states. Interacting with the media...
Dharamsala, September 28, 2013: Himachal Government has made earnest efforts to attract tourists in the state even then the number of tourists in HP is lower in comparison to other states.
Interacting with the media persons on World tourism day on Friday at Kangra, near here, today, Dr. Pardeep Kumar Head Department of Economics M.C.M. D.A.V. College Kangra, added amongst top ten states where foreign tourists increased in 2012, Maharashtra with 51 lakh foreign tourists is at the top ,whereas HP with only 5 lakh foreign tourists is at the bottom the list.
He said, “Himachal Pradesh is one of the peaceful and progressive states in the country, but failed to attract a bulk on national or international tourists in the state.
“During two decades number of Indian tourists stepped up more rapidly in comparison to foreign tourists. On comparing top ten states where foreign tourists increased in 2012 Maharashtra achieved first position with 51 lakh foreign tourists followed by Tamilnadu with 36 lakh, Delhi with 23 lakh, Uttar Pradesh with 20 lakh, Rajasthan with 15 lakh, West Bengal with 12 lakh, Bihar with 11 lakh, Kerela with 8 lakh, Karnataka with 6 lakh and Himachal Pradesh with 5 lakh.”, he revealed.
For improvement of industry reforms Kumar suggested that Himachal must focus for the maintaining of religious places and historical monuments. Civic amenities such as toilets, water supply, and parking must be provided near these places. Enquiry centers should also be established at each and every tourist spots. Moreover cheap stay arrangement for the tourists must be the top most priority.
He further suggested, in addition, construction of film studios should also be taken into consideration to attract more directors and producers for the shooting of the films. Hotels and restaurants should also be constructed nearby. It will promote tourism industry as well as employment opportunities, he believes.
“Railway network is very important for the development of tourism. Therefore, Central Government must take keen interest to expand railway network in Himachal Pradesh”, added Dr. Paradeep.